Working with Beeswax
Published July 20, 2012
Here’s a new twist on an old idea.
Beeswax candles are completely natural, burn clean and believe it or not, are very easy to assemble. They come in an assortment of colours to match any décor and you can purchase them at local craft stores.
There are two types of beeswax sheets; the first is a honeycomb style and the second is the simple, flat sheet. Both are equally attractive and can be used for any shape of candle.
Instead of rolling the traditional beeswax taper and pillar candle, try wrapping the pre-cut strips around a glass vase. The best vases are the straight, cylindrical shape. Avoid using the round and v-shaped styles.
The beeswax that is wrapped around the vase will not melt and the container may be used again on many occasions.
Materials
- Clear glass vases of varying sizes
- Multi-coloured honeycomb beeswax sheets
- Cutting board
- Utility knife
- Small votive candle (or small candle holder with tea light inside)
Determine how many beeswax strips you would like to wrap around each vase.
On the cutting board, carefully cut a strip with the utility knife.
Wrap the beeswax strip around the vase so that the ends meet. Try to mix up the layered colours. Carefully press the wax to the glass vase. Repeat with the other coloured wax strips.
Once the container is completely covered, place a small votive candle inside the vase. Be sure to use a small votive candle with a glass container so as to provide a barrier between the candle and the wax-covered vase. In this way the beeswax strips are protected and will not melt.
It’s best to assemble the candles as close to the time of use as possible in order for the wax to be pliable and fresh.
Arrange the candles on a tray in a random fashion for added effect.
